Contemporary Gospel Artist Karen Poole Brings Powerful Vocals, Praise to ‘NoteWorthy’ Concert Series

‘Listen. Love. Take Note.’ 89.9 WDAV Classical Public Radio and FAIR PLAY Music Equity Initiative invite music fans to NoteWorthy, featuring contemporary gospel artist Karen Poole, at 7:30 PM on Wednesday, September 1st. Joined by violinist Alice Silva, trumpeter Keenan Harmon, and trombonist Brent Ballard, Poole’s electrifying voice and uplifting spirit will shake the rafters at the Blumenthal’s Stage Door Theatre. The performance can be viewed with Facebook Live at facebook.com/wdavclassical.

Karen Poole is a singer, songwriter, musician, producer, indie contemporary gospel artist, and worship leader originally from Norfolk, VA, where she began her music career. An alumna of Norfolk State University, Karen relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2017. Karen brings a soulful, yet eclectic blend of Contemporary Gospel, Contemporary Christian, Jazz, and R&B. Born into a family of songwriters, singers, and musicians, Karen has been actively involved in music performance from a very young age. Karen’s debut EP, entitled “Life Lessons,” was released in 2010, followed by the release of her debut album “Hidden” in February 2021. “Life Lessons,” “Hidden,” and additional Karen Poole releases are available on all digital media outlets.

Of NoteWorthy, Poole said, “This experience of collaborating with classical musicians was a dream come true. Everyone was so warm, welcoming, and professional. The best part is that some ongoing relationships were birthed. Thank you, WDAV and NoteWorthy. It was an absolute pleasure.”

NoteWorthy is a concert series that pairs gifted Black and brown artists from Charlotte’s music scene with classically trained musicians. It’s what happens when jazz, soul, Latin, rock, hip-hop, pop, and R&B meet classical. Through this project, WDAV and FAIR PLAY aim to break down cultural divisions among music lovers by centering the contributions of musicians of color. NoteWorthy was awarded a Cultural Vision Grant by the Arts and Science Council.

“This NoteWorthy project has been one of the most fulfilling projects to work on. To see worlds collide in real time is such a treat,” said Tim Scott, Jr. of FAIR PLAY Music Equity Initiative. “Being able to have an active role in Karen Poole’s performance was especially rewarding. I think people will be touched.”

“I think viewers will be blown away by this concert,” said Will Keible, Director of Marketing at WDAV. “Horns, violin, a band, background singers, and Karen Poole’s amazingly powerful voice all come together to make this a truly NoteWorthy event.”

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